Is Your Immune System Weakening? Tips for Improvement
Is the immune system weakened? How can it be improved? Hello, Doctor Gao: Over the past six months, I have experienced occasional small cuts on my fingers that are difficult to heal, often taking 3-4 weeks (each time a small cut turns into a small area of skin ulceration, but th...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen, thank you for your message. Your symptoms are nonspecific, making it difficult to determine if there is an underlying immune dysfunction. I have a few suggestions as follows: 1. "Occasional small cuts on the fingers that are slow to heal, taking 3-4 weeks&qu...[Read More] Is Your Immune System Weakening? Tips for Improvement
Understanding Allergies and Throat Discomfort: Common Concerns Explained
Two questions for inquiry? Hello, Doctor. A few days ago, the weather turned cold, and I seemed to have a runny nose. I visited a nearby ENT specialist who said that my throat wasn't severely inflamed, but my nasal allergies were quite serious, which could cause occasional t...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems you may have pharyngitis complicated by otitis media. I recommend visiting an otolaryngologist for an examination of the middle ear. Regarding the heartbeat sound you mentioned, if there is inflammation in the middle ear accompanied by f...[Read More] Understanding Allergies and Throat Discomfort: Common Concerns Explained
Understanding Oral Health: What to Do About Gum Bumps
Oral issues? Hello Dr. Hong, a few days ago after brushing my teeth, I noticed a small bump near the gum tissue above my leftmost tooth that feels somewhat like a bone. I later checked the right side, which is in the same position, but I haven't had my wisdom tooth extracted...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is normal to have some small fleshy protrusions in your mouth. However, you may want to have a dental examination to check if there are any impacted wisdom teeth. As for the likelihood of cancer, it is low, so please do not worry. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Oral Health: What to Do About Gum Bumps
Managing Dust Mite Allergies: Do You Need Ongoing Treatment?
Identify allergens? Regarding dust mites, do I need to continuously see an allergist and regularly obtain medication? Is it considered a chronic condition, and should I get a chronic disease prescription?
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. If your allergen is dust mites, you can decide whether to take medication based on your symptoms. My recommendations are: 1. If the environment can be modified, such as regularly washing and sunning your bedding, it can help alleviate symptoms ...[Read More] Managing Dust Mite Allergies: Do You Need Ongoing Treatment?
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Symptoms
Temperature issues Hello Doctor, I started experiencing a sore throat on December 20th of last year and sought treatment. After finishing the first course of medication, my symptoms changed to a scratchy throat and coughing. I continued to return for follow-up visits and received...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, your body temperature is indeed slightly elevated, especially if it frequently exceeds 37.5°C. It is important to pay attention to this; if there are no specific symptoms of infection, it may be necessary to consider atypical infections or other factors such as rheumatolog...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Symptoms
Managing Frequent Doctor Visits: Understanding Your Health Concerns
Feeling troubled? I often visit the doctor, sometimes feeling very fatigued. I have mild thalassemia and a waist circumference of 97 cm, with abdominal obesity. My lifestyle is generally normal, but I have issues with nasal allergies. Recently, I visited an immunology specialist ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that your body is prone to minor issues in various organs, mostly related to allergies. The most effective recommendations are regular exercise and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Avoid staying up late and try to reduce stress; ...[Read More] Managing Frequent Doctor Visits: Understanding Your Health Concerns
Managing Chronic Health Issues: Insights for Frequent Medical Visits
Health issues I visit the doctor approximately 50 times a year. Aside from my monthly visits to a psychiatrist, the main reasons for my frequent medical consultations are gastroenteritis and upper respiratory infections, including allergic rhinitis. Recently, I underwent allergy ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that your body may be experiencing minor issues with various organs, mostly related to allergies. I recommend that the most effective approach is to engage in regular exercise, followed by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Avoid s...[Read More] Managing Chronic Health Issues: Insights for Frequent Medical Visits
Understanding Uncommon Hand Conditions: Symptoms and Solutions
Hand problems My older sister has a red patch with dots on her finger that hurts when touched, and it has been present for some time. She recently visited a doctor at Pingtung Hospital, who mentioned it was the first time seeing such a case. The doctor conducted various allergy t...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Generally speaking, painful nodules are less likely to be related to allergies and are more likely associated with rheumatic or autoimmune diseases. If the patient's attending physician is a rheumatologist, it is advisable to return for a f...[Read More] Understanding Uncommon Hand Conditions: Symptoms and Solutions
Frequent Doctor Visits: Understanding Respiratory Issues and Immunity
Frequent medical visits? I often feel discomfort while breathing through my nose, and my doctor has mostly diagnosed me with upper respiratory infections. Sometimes it is bronchitis or allergic rhinitis, and at times I experience discomfort around my nose. I frequently visit the ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. There are several reasons for nasal discomfort. In addition to allergies, it could simply be that the nasal mucosa is sensitive to temperature and humidity, or even a mild upper respiratory viral infection could be the cause. For persistent and...[Read More] Frequent Doctor Visits: Understanding Respiratory Issues and Immunity
Understanding Delayed Drug Allergies: Immediate vs. Late Reactions
Delayed drug allergy Hello! I would like to ask if someone has a history of delayed drug allergy, will they experience an immediate allergic reaction if they take the same allergenic medication again, or will it still be delayed? My doctor is unsure which medication I am allergic...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if you consume an allergy medication again, any type of allergic reaction is possible. Therefore, if possible, it is best to avoid any suspected allergy medications. As for the symptoms you described, if it is unclear whether they are an allergic reaction, it is advisable ...[Read More] Understanding Delayed Drug Allergies: Immediate vs. Late Reactions
Understanding Drug Allergies: Identifying Culprits After Medication Reactions
Drug allergy I would like to ask if it is possible for a drug allergy to manifest as a rash four days after stopping the medication? I had swollen lymph nodes that persisted for a month, so I consulted a doctor and was prescribed Augmentin 1g tablets for a week and a half. After ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, typically, the chance of an allergic reaction is lower if medication is stopped for four days. However, it is also possible that the subsequent medication caused the reaction, or it could be due to other factors such as food or environmental allergens. The exact cause of a...[Read More] Understanding Drug Allergies: Identifying Culprits After Medication Reactions
Understanding Nocturnal Wheezing: Causes and Concerns for Sleep Health
Sudden wheezing sounds during sleep? Hello Dr. Hong, I apologize for interrupting you during your busy schedule. Recently, I have noticed that I experience wheezing sounds while sleeping. After doing some research on Google, I suspect it might be related to respiratory issues, so...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that temperature changes or allergies may have led to allergic rhinitis and bronchitis. I recommend starting with keeping warm and wearing a mask, as well as engaging in moderate exercise, which can be helpful. If symptoms persist, it ma...[Read More] Understanding Nocturnal Wheezing: Causes and Concerns for Sleep Health
Do Health Supplements Affect Birth Control Pills? A Medical Inquiry
Health Supplements and Contraceptive Pills Issues Hello, doctor. I have some allergies and tend to experience nasal congestion in winter. A friend bought a health supplement, "Cordyceps Sinensis capsules," from the pharmacy for me. However, since I am also taking birth ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, currently there is no clear evidence to suggest that these two medications interact with each other. It is recommended to review the prescribing information for both medications; if there is no mention of interaction, the likelihood of interaction is low. However, it is ad...[Read More] Do Health Supplements Affect Birth Control Pills? A Medical Inquiry
Should You See a Rheumatologist for Persistent Allergy Symptoms?
It is uncertain whether further evaluation by a rheumatologist or immunologist is necessary for allergy issues? Two weeks ago, on Monday night, I stayed up late and woke up the next morning to find that my lower eyelid was swollen, extending to my cheekbone. I confirmed there was...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, based on your situation, it may be angioedema, which can have many causes, with allergies being just one of them. I recommend that you visit a dermatologist or an immunology/rheumatology specialist for further evaluation and treatment. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Should You See a Rheumatologist for Persistent Allergy Symptoms?
Flu Concerns and Vaccination: What You Need to Know
Inquiry about influenza and vaccines? Hello, doctor. Yesterday, I had a barbecue with a friend who is currently serving in the military. Towards the end of our conversation, he mentioned that there seemed to be a lot of colds or flu going around. After he returned, he developed s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The incubation period for influenza is typically around 3-5 days. 2. Physicians usually determine whether the symptoms are new or existing, as well as consider your age and any underlying health conditions, to decide whether to prescribe antiviral medications like Ta...[Read More] Flu Concerns and Vaccination: What You Need to Know
Understanding Sleep Paralysis: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Waking up with a clear mind but unable to control the body, and always feeling very fatigued upon waking? Hello, doctor. This issue has been intermittently bothering me for several years. I am in my twenties, and it started when I was preparing for university in high school. Some...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the condition you described is a type of sleep disorder, which is quite common among people in Taiwan. There are many potential causes, including irregular sleep patterns, stress, and airway obstruction. It is recommended that you consult a sleep medicine clinic, where a s...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Paralysis: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Understanding Your Blood Test Results: What Elevated ALT and Lymphocytes Mean
Ask the doctor some questions? Hello doctor, my health check report shows an ALT level of 45, and it seems my lymphocytes are elevated at around 60, while other values are slightly low and abnormal, prompting the recommendation to see a hematologist. At that time, the doctor aske...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Based on your description of general discomfort along with elevated liver enzymes and increased lymphocytes, it is indeed more likely to be a viral infection. However, the viruses referred to here are common viruses, such as respiratory viruses, commonly known as &quo...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: What Elevated ALT and Lymphocytes Mean
Concerns About Long-Term Use of Medications for Dry Mouth Relief
Questions about medications for Sjögren's syndrome? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the medication Evoxac (cevimeline) for enhancing saliva secretion in patients with Sjögren's syndrome. If taken long-term, is there a risk of addiction or a situation where it b...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The medication you mentioned for Sjögren's syndrome, such as Evoxac (pilocarpine), currently has no reports of causing addiction, so it should not lead to the situation you described. 2. Both Esetimibe (Ezallor) and nasal allergy medications can potentially cau...[Read More] Concerns About Long-Term Use of Medications for Dry Mouth Relief
Understanding Temporary Tinnitus: When to Seek Medical Attention
Sudden transient tinnitus in the ear? Hello, Doctor Hong. Earlier, I suddenly experienced a brief buzzing sound in my right ear for about 10 seconds. Although it disappeared shortly after, it felt like my ear was suddenly blocked. This morning, I had severe nasal congestion due t...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, some individuals may experience temporary tinnitus due to their physical constitution, excessive fatigue, or various other factors. Others may develop tinnitus as a result of a cold. If the tinnitus is only temporary and later improves, no special treatment is necessary. H...[Read More] Understanding Temporary Tinnitus: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Eosinophil Levels and Complement C3 in Patients with Behçet's Disease
Regarding eosinophils and complement issues? Four months ago, my eosinophil count was 4%, and this month it is 1.8%. The last time I had blood drawn, it was around 3%. Additionally, I have a complement C3 level of 73. I am a patient with Behçet's disease, and I'm not su...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Basophils are somewhat related to allergies, but their numbers are naturally low and can fluctuate due to different measurement times. I personally believe that there is no need to see a hematologist at this point. Complement levels are related...[Read More] Understanding Eosinophil Levels and Complement C3 in Patients with Behçet's Disease